All Blacks legend Maa Nonu will join the Sharks team for the match as part of the 'Greatest Rivalry in Rugby' tour against the team he previously represented with great distinction.
Greatest Rivalry in Rugby Tour
Nonu, who swapped the famous black All Blacks jersey for the black and white Sharks kit, will play from the bench after signing a short-term contract with the Durban franchise. His age of 42 sharply contrasts with many players in the Sharks squad, especially the defenders he has come to mentor.
The defense features four players from the Junior Springboks category, as well as a young player from the Blitzboks, because the Sharks decided to give several young athletes the opportunity to test themselves at a high level against the All Blacks. This line is built on speed and initiative, with South Africa national flanker Wusi Moyo leading a dynamic group of attacking players.
The squad includes players who have represented South Africa at the U-20 or Blitzboks level: fullback Zeketelo Siyaya, wingers Donovan Don and Litelile Bester, and outside centre Djurenzo Julius. Additionally, the Sharks bench features another attacking talent from the Junior Bok, Luan Giliomme, and experience is brought by Nonu and former South African international Ivan van Zyl.
Eight players in the squad are under 23 years old and are either current or former Junior Springboks. The youth focus extends to the reserves in the front row: current Junior Boks Liam van Wyk, Rambo Hubeka, and Simphiwe Ngobese are included in the reserve. However, the starting forwards possess significantly more experience.
Captain Nick Hatton plays at number 8 and forms a trio with Manu Tsikutuka and Fepsy Butelezi, while Vincent Tsikutuka provides support from the bench. Much experience is also present in the tight five thanks to new acquisitions Hendre Stassen and Nemo Roelofs, who receive starting positions. Although they may be little known to Sharks fans, they possess extensive European experience. 31-year-old Roelofs has played over 150 matches in the French Top 14, and 28-year-old Stassen joins the Sharks after several seasons with Stade Français. Completing this impressive tight five is two-time World Rugby Champion Vincent Koch at tighthead prop.
Despite all the experience provided by Nonu, Van Zyl, Koch, and the senior Sharks forwards, the most intriguing aspect of the team is the chance given to the group of young and promising athletes.
